Can anyone recommend the best route in starting an online wholesale business? For instance, what is the best method for contacting the manufacturer. Is it the distributor? And, does this type of sales transaction require that I pre-purchase product? All I want to do is become the middle man for the manufacturer and end user and offer drop shipping. And, if anyone has any information on the tax implication on wholesales in Illinois, much appreciated.
What would the best negotiating tool be in order to increase the gap between purchase price and cost?

Any other bits of info is greatly appreciated.